That was a big win for Jeff Bzdelik’s Buffs in Nebraska on Tuesday. Along with ending the dreadful road drought, the Buffs kept themselves in contention for a postseason spot. If they can get a win Saturday at home against Texas Tech — and pick up a Big 12 tourney victory — they’ll be in position for an NIT berth.
That’s a good step in the right direction for Bzdelik’s program. The Buffs lose just one senior, Dwight Thorne. They also have a host of quality players coming back, beginning with Cory Higgins, Alec Burks and Marcus Relphorde.
Honestly? This is a program that should be an NCAA Tournament team a year from now. I guarantee you, Bzdelik will be greatly disappointed if it doesn’t happen.
As for this year, an eighth-place conference finish is by no means a monumental achievement. But eighth place in a conference that’s likely to send seven teams to the NCAA tournament is moving in the right direction.